1995 Chevy Beretta

1995 CHEVROLET BERETTA
Avatar
TINA85
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Engine Cooling problem
1995 Chevy Beretta 6 cyl Automatic 120000 miles

My car was sitting for a few days not running because i needed a nw axel, well after that got fixedmy car would not start. i had water in where the antifreeze should go cause i forgot i needed anti freeze. it froze up, did this do serious damage? could this be why my car will not start. and now when i try to start it,it just clicks,and my lights are real dim... is that my battery?
Dec 19, 2009 at 3:51 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
If you only had water in the system, it may have done damage to the engine block. You need to get it into a warm area thaw the ice, remove the water and replace it with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water. Start the engine, let it warm up and then check for leaks and make sure no coolant is getting into the oil. Also, pay attention to the radiator to make sure there are no leaks there.

As far as freezing, it can crack the block if it freezes hard enough. However, there are freeze plugs on the engine block designed to release pressure if this happens, but they don't always work. Do what I recommended and let me know what you find.

As far as the dim lights, it sounds like the battery is weak and needs to be recharged.

Let me know what you find or if you have other quesitons.

Joe
Dec 21, 2009 at 8:08 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.